Passing of Father Emmett Johns, “Pops”

Dans la rue is deeply saddened to announce the passing of the organization’s founder, Father Emmett Johns, fondly known as “Pops,” on January 13th, 2018. He was ­­89.

In 1988, at the age of 60 and after decades serving as a parish priest, Father Johns felt called to reach out to Montreal’s homeless youth. He took to the streets in a used motorhome, offering warm food and a sympathetic ear to hundreds of street youth.

Dans la rue’s mission remains strongly rooted in Pops’ philosophy of dedication, empathy, and respect. His enduring legacy is one of acceptance without judgement and this legacy will continue to inspire and to guide the staff and volunteers at Dans la rue as they carry on his important work.

Commemoration activities to be held in honour of Father Emmett Johns “Pops” :

All activities are open to the public. Additional information will be made available on our Facebook page over the coming days.

“When I think back to the first nights I spent on the Van, never could I have imagined that Dans la rue would be what it is today… We have had an impact on tens of thousands of young lives – and we continue to reach out to more and more every day.” – Father Emmett Johns, “Pops”